The 1980s may be a distant memory for most ? but not for a band of misty-eyed drivers devoted to the Ford Capri Mk III.

Produced between 1978 and 1986, the car became a must-have motor after starring in cult detective show, The Professionals.

And the 80s lived on when three vintage Capris marked the 25th anniversary of North Solihull Sports Centre in Conway Road, Chelmsley Wood.

The cars were owned by members of The Capri Nuts, a Capri owners? display group.

Founder member Steve Cash, a 46-year-old electrician and Professionals fan, fell in love with the car?s ?rocket? shape as an 11-year-old.

?It was nothing to do with the engine or how fast it went at first,? he said.

?If you go to classic car shows you get crowds of people reminiscing over their old Capris.

?I would say the Mk III was the best-looking one but the good thing about the Capri is that everyone has their own view.? Steve, from Barns Lane, Rushall, Walsall, was at the sports centre with fellow group members, Steve Hodson, from West Bromwich, and 29-year-old Chris Baker, from Bloxwich.